Yoga Journal LIVE! 2016 Estes Park Recap

Yoga Journal LIVE is a conference Yoga Journal holds each year in multiple locations. This year I won a 4-day pass to the Estes Park, Colorado conference. After I shook off the disbelief and awe, I booked a flight and a room at YMCA of the Rockies.

I love feeling the buzz of Kathryn Budig’s classes, her book is a piece of art, and her Aim True message has been transformational for me.

My over-crowded mind dragged me rather forcefully to Tias Little’s full day Silent Retreat. My mind said “thank you” the next day and I picked up Tias’ book Yoga of the Subtle Body.

Colleen Saidman Yee was offering a 1/2 day Woman’s Retreat. The concept intrigued me and after reading her book, I knew this one was for me. The workshop had many of us in tears. Those healthy tears that allow you to shed that which no longer serves you. Whether you are unfamiliar with Colleen or a huge fan, I highly recommend her book and you can check out my review here: Yoga for Life.

Classes & Workshops

Workshopping: Yoga Journal LIVE is mostly full and half-day workshops.

You have to make some tough decisions at yoga conferences because there are so many wonderful classes, but a limited amount of time. This isn’t a bad thing, but rather a nod to the conference organizers for doing a splendid job.

The intensity and length of the workshops allows you to dig in, peel back the layers and get to the heart of your practice and yourself.

Location, Location, Location

YMCA of the Rockies: Where Nature Inspires. This is not an empty promise! Deer, rabbit and elk-galore — wildlife went about life as though we weren’t there. Elk wandered across the sidewalk feet away, families of deer grazed with an occasional glance to make sure no one got too close. As I waited for the shuttle to leave, a dark, crisp morning, I couldn’t see the elk, but could hear them calling to each other. It was eerie yet beautiful. As dawn crept over us, their dark shapes popped up all across the field, feet from us. Nature lovers: You will love it.

“Where Natures Inspires”

Vendors

Visit The Yoga Market. It is huge! Rows upon rows of vendors selling all things yoga and wellness. Yoga Journal supplied us each with a swag bag of goodies and a copy of their latest magazine issue. There are many very knowledgeable vendors in the market with interesting products and prize draws.

Deepened Practice

Yoga Immersion 2.0. While Wanderlust was eye-opening and invigorating, Yoga Journal LIVE took my practice and blasted it with sparkles that I haven’t been able to shake off. Mind-blowing revelations, energy, glowing happiness rolled up into 4-days.

Being around so many people with similar goals and interests is delightful and refreshing.

In a Nutshell

If you are trying to decide on a yoga festival or conference to attend… I can’t help you!

No, but seriously, I can’t. I enjoyed both Wanderlust and Yoga Journal LIVE so much that I am planning to attend both in 2017. Perhaps I will pick different locations as there are so many wonderful spots to explore. However, Estes Park will be at the top of that list.

Wildlife EverywhereUnF’withable Class by Kathryn BudigBroke the sky — this started as a triple-rainbow!